Appeal after reports of bogus workman operating in Inverness

Police in Inverness are advising residents to be on their guard after multiple reports of a bogus caller operating in the city.

The fraud involves a man offering gardening services for a sum of cash upfront. However, he then leaves after completing minimal or no work.

Several incidents which appear linked have been reported to police over the past few days, resulting in the theft of low values sums of cash from addresses in the Merkinch, Hilton and Scorguie areas.
Officers are seeking to speak to a man in connection with these incidents, described as being about 6ft tall with short dark hair.

He is described as wearing a brown fleece, dark trousers and black dress shoes. He may be travelling using a dark coloured car.

Inspector Paul Maclaren said: "Our enquiries are ongoing into this incident and I would urge others to be their guard against an approach of this kind.

“We don’t recommend dealing with cold-callers for any form of property maintenance or repair to your home so if you have any doubts, do not engage with them until you have established they are genuine.
"Do not offer money upfront to a stranger at your door and don't feel pressurised to agree to have work carried.

"If in doubt call police on 101. Information relating to the recent incidents can be passed on using the reference NN23906/17, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."